>> and nathan, mitch mcconnell's political issues that are in 2014, both a little concerned about a primary, got to be concerned about a real challenge in a general election, it almost -- won't mcconnell secretly want the president to work around him? he doesn't want to have to be a guy that cuts a deal in either direction? >> if you talk about tax rate increases -- it's still toxic within the republican party. it will take compromise on both sides. >> jim manley said the president has to make it public that he's willing to go over the cliff. if republicans don't believe he's willing to do it, he's handing them a piece of leverage. >> i don't know if he needs to go that far. i think he needs to show some backbone and have more skin in the game is what i would say on this. and i think the republicans are also going to be looking at the fact that in two years, they have to answer to the electorate that said to them, figure it out. >> perhaps. the electorate might look differenty. shameless plugs? >> georgetown, hoyas' season opener. great game. >> my dad came here today. >> mr. gonzales. >> t